The Flame That Forms Us [Purifying] Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon discusses the final step in the spiritual refinement process, focusing on how God refines believers until they reflect His character. Jonathan explains that just as gold is refined until it becomes a pure reflective surface, God continues to refine believers until they reflect His character. Using passages from Titus, Peter, and Job, the sermon emphasizes that trials and suffering serve to purify faith, which is more precious than gold.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your refining process in our lives, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to Your truth. Help us understand how You are working to purify us and make us more like Jesus. Give us the courage to be honest with ourselves and with You as we examine our hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker
What's the most valuable possession you own, and why is it meaningful to you?

Key Verses

• Titus 2:11-14
• 1 Peter 1:6-7
• Job 23:10-12
• Romans 8:26-39
• 2 Timothy 2:19-22

Questions

• How would you describe the difference between coping with difficulties and truly surrendering them to God?
• What does it mean to you personally to 'reflect God's character' in your daily life?
• The sermon mentions that 'your flesh is not your friend.' How have you experienced this truth in your own life?
• In what ways have you seen God use difficult circumstances to refine your faith?
• How does knowing that nothing can separate us from God's love impact how you view trials in your life?
• What does it mean to be a 'vessel for honorable use' in your daily life?
• How can we balance our responsibility in the purification process while relying on God's power?
• What areas of your life do you feel God is currently trying to refine?

Life Application
This week, identify one area of your life where you've been relying on your own strength rather than surrendering it to God. Make a conscious decision to surrender this area to Him daily through prayer and actively choose to respond to challenges in this area by seeking God's guidance first.

Key Takeaways

• Purity is God's promise to followers of Jesus, not just a set of behaviors
• Our faith is more precious than gold and is refined through trials
• Denying self is not about losing identity but finding our true identity in Christ
• We must actively surrender our sinful nature to God rather than expecting Him to simply remove it
• Nothing can separate us from God's love, even during times of refinement

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your commitment to refining us into Your image. Help us to surrender fully to Your purifying work in our lives. Give us the strength to crucify our flesh and the wisdom to recognize Your hand in our trials. May we emerge from each refining season more closely reflecting Your character. In Jesus' name, Amen.